Forces from the 82nd Airborne and the 4th Infantry Division launched Operation Rifles Fury with the objective to destroy terrorist training camps in the Rawah area as well as kill or capture any anti-coalition forces. Brigadier General Mark Kimmitt, Deputy Director for Operations of Coalition Forces, reported on December 24, 2003 that the 82nd Airborne Division had captured 87 people, 17 of which were targeted for committing crimes against the coalition. CENTCOM announced on December 22nd, 2003 that the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment captured 11 high value targets and detained 70 individuals for questioning.

Kimmitt also reported that Operation Rifles Fury contained a civil-military operation designed to help support the legitimate authorities in the area.